The Philadelphia 76ers needed overtime to secure a thrilling victory against the Houston Rockets, thanks to a stellar performance from Tyrese Maxey and a triple-double by Joel Embiid. But it wasn't all smooth sailing for the 76ers...
On January 22, 2026, Maxey and Embiid combined forces to lead their team to a 128-122 win in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Maxey, who scored 36 points, was the star of the night, especially in the extra period where he contributed six crucial points. Embiid, the towering center, dominated with a triple-double, racking up 32 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.
The 76ers' Kelly Oubre Jr. also had a noteworthy performance, adding 26 points to the scoreboard. Philadelphia's victory was even more impressive considering they were without key players due to injuries. Paul George, returning from a two-game absence caused by a left knee injury, managed to contribute 10 points.
And here's where the plot thickens: The Rockets, led by Kevin Durant's 36 points, were on a three-game winning streak and posed a significant challenge. Durant, a scoring machine, kept the Rockets in the game, but it was the 76ers who seized control in the extra session. With George's 3-pointer and a close-range follow-up by VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia took a commanding lead in overtime.
The game could have ended in regulation, but Durant's defensive prowess denied Maxey's layup attempt with just seconds left. Maxey, despite this setback, finished the game with an impressive 10 assists. The fourth quarter was a rollercoaster, with the 76ers taking a 94-88 lead, only to be held scoreless for over three minutes. Houston's Reed Sheppard then hit a 3-pointer to give the Rockets a 105-96 advantage with 6:25 remaining. Philadelphia fought back, tying the game twice in the final minutes, the last time on Maxey's layup with just over 40 seconds left.
The Rockets were without Aaron Holiday due to back spasms and center Steven Adams due to an ankle sprain. Despite these absences, the game was a showcase of basketball excellence. Hall of Famer Julius Erving, known as 'Dr. J', who led the 76ers to the 1983 NBA championship, was in the audience, witnessing the modern-day heroes of his former team.
The 76ers will look to build on this momentum as they host the Knicks next, while the Rockets will aim to bounce back against the Detroit Pistons on the road. What's your take on this game? Was it a statement win for the 76ers, or did the Rockets simply come up short?
